American Austin or American Bantam? Both cars were American-made by workmen in an American plant in Butler, Pennsylvania.

American Bantam 1938-1940. American Austin Car Company president Roy S. Evans reorganized his firm in 1936 as the American Bantam Car Company. Mechanical improvements meant his cars were no longer licensed versions of the original Austin Seven. Initially, Thomas Hibbard redesigned the bodies and production was anticipated for 1936, but a financial setback delayed production. Ultimately, Hibbard's designs were not used.

This delay allowed Evans to solicit new streamlined designs from Alexis deSahknoffsky. American Austin body shell stampings were retained, but fenders, grilles, wheels, interiors and other details were updated. New body styles were added.

Unfortunately, a significant market for economy cars would not develop in America for two more decades. Only about 6,700 Bantams were built before civilian production ceased in June, 1940 to make way for military work.

Five Bantams (two roadsters, one station wagon, one pickup and one coupe) all to the left of the "special" in the pictures. In the center, the 1935 Special, an Ulster body on an English Austin 7 chassis (shown in the background over the hood of the blue Austin). Plus five Austins all to the right of the special. The Wanna-be-Seen-Green Austin coupe is mine. Great show with many rare cars on display in a beautiful setting. GD